(HealthDay News) -- Otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear, is an infection that is common in people who spend a lot of time in the water. Bacteria and fungi can grow inside the ear when moisture is present, such as after swimming.
Here are suggestions to prevent swimmer's ear, courtesy of the Nemours Foundation:
- Wear earplugs when swimming.
- After swimming, gently dry out the ears with a soft towel, and turn the head side to side to help water run out of the ears.
- Apply drops to the ears (diluted acetic acid) after getting out of the pool.
- Never let children clean their ears themselves, and never use a Q-tip.
